What's New at KidsPeace

News and Notes from KidsPeace

HONORING AMERICA’S GRANDPARENTS
Few people are aware of a recent startling shift in family dynamics, but grandparents are the
primary caregivers for nearly six million children in this country – and the numbers are growing.
In fact, 75 percent of all non-parental care of children in America is now provided by
grandparents. To focus the nation’s attention on this phenomenon and provide grandparents with
the recognition they deserve, the national children’s charity KidsPeace, Humana, Mattel, Beaches
Resorts and GRAND Magazine are launching the third annual national search for an example of
extraordinary care worthy of the title of GRANDparent of the Year. Any member of the
American public can nominate a GRANDparent of the Year. Nominating forms are available in
the May/June issue of GRAND Magazine and online at www.grandmagazine.com. Children
should use the kid-safe site www.grandcontest.com.

OPENING YOUR HEART AND YOUR HOME TO A CHILD IN NEED
Got extra love to share? Think about creating a family or expanding the one you’ve got. May is
also National Foster Care Awareness Month and more than 600,000 children nationwide currently
need foster homes. Unfortunately, the number of foster homes falls far short of meeting the need.
A supportive, caring foster family can give kids a sanctuary where they can be safe, heal from
their emotional scars, and experience a sense of home and family they may never have had
before. The face of foster care is changing, with older children, youngsters with disabilities, and
kids who not only need a loving home but help to overcome crises such as abuse. To learn more about foster care and adoption.

KEEPING THE FAMILY MEMBERS YOU ALREADY HAVE AND LOVE SAFE
Americans work hard to protect their children, but child abuse and neglect remain at unacceptably
high levels with nearly 900,000 U.S. youngsters hurt each year. Since many of even the best-intentioned parents don’t know how to prevent abuse and the conditions under which it may come about, the 125-year-old national children’s crisis charity KidsPeace is offering free downloadable information packets. Get two dozen simple yet effective tips to make your home safe, give your child trust and build communication, give your child independence, and give your child self-esteem.